Craving the bold, spicy flavors of Paneer 65 but want to skip the deep frying? You’re in the right place! This air-fried version gives you all the crispy, restaurant-style goodness—without the extra oil.

Perfect for Iftar or as a quick appetizer, this Non-Fried Ramadan recipe delivers that irresistible crunch and spicy kick you love, but in a lighter, healthier way. The secret? A flavorful marinade, an air fryer for crispiness, and a quick toss in a fragrant tadka.

If you’ve been looking for a way to enjoy your favorite snacks without compromising on taste, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Paneer 65 is a beloved South Indian appetizer, known for its crispy texture, spicy coating, and irresistible flavor. Traditionally deep-fried, it’s a popular choice at restaurants and special gatherings. But with Ramadan here, we’re all about making lighter, healthier choices—without sacrificing taste!

This air-fried version delivers:
✔️ The same crispy texture without deep frying
✔️ A flavorful, spicy marinade that coats the paneer beautifully
✔️ A quick & easy cooking method using the air fryer
✔️ A fragrant tadka that enhances the flavors even more

How This Recipe Works

The magic starts with a well-balanced marinade made from yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, aromatic spices, rice flour, and cornstarch. The rice flour and cornstarch help create a crispy outer layer when air-fried, mimicking the deep-fried version. After a short marination, the paneer is air-fried until golden and crispy.

But we don’t stop there! A sizzling tadka of garlic, green chilies, and curry leaves is combined with the leftover marinade and a touch of ketchup to create a thick, flavorful sauce. Toss the crispy paneer in this sauce, and you have a dish that’s just as indulgent—minus the guilt!

Perfect for Iftar & Beyond

This Paneer 65 is a fantastic addition to your Iftar table. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and will be a guaranteed hit with family and friends. Serve it as a snack, appetizer, or even pair it with roti or rice for a complete meal.

So if you’re looking for a healthier way to enjoy your favorite Iftar treats, this Non-Fried Ramadan recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into the full recipe below!

Ingredients for Air-Fried Paneer 65

Here’s everything you need to make this crispy, spicy Paneer 65—without deep frying!

For the Marinade:

• 400g Paneer – Cut into bite-sized cubes. Use fresh, firm paneer for the best texture.
• 60g Yogurt – Acts as the base of the marinade and adds a tangy flavor. Use thick yogurt for best results.
• 1 tbsp Ginger-Garlic Paste – Essential for that bold, aromatic flavor.
• 2 tsp Red Chili Powder – Adjust to taste for spice level. Kashmiri chili powder gives a vibrant red color with mild heat.
• ¼ tsp Black Pepper Powder – Adds heat.
• ½ tsp Cumin Powder – Enhances the depth of flavor.
• ½ tsp Garam Masala – A must for a rich, spicy kick.
• 1 tsp Salt – Balances and enhances all the flavors.
• 50g Rice Flour – Helps create a crispy coating when air-fried.
• 20g Cornstarch – Works with the rice flour to add crunch and help the marinade stick.
• 50ml Water – Adjust as needed for a thick yet spreadable marinade.

For Air-Frying:

• 1 tbsp Oil – For adding to the marinated paneer to help crisp it up.
• 1 tsp Oil – To lightly grease the bottom to prevent sticking.

For the Tadka (Tempering):

• 1 tbsp Oil – I used unrefined rapeseed oil. Olive oil can also be used.
• 3–4 Garlic Cloves (Chopped) – Brings an irresistible garlicky aroma.
• 2 Green Chilies (Sliced) – Adjust based on your spice preference.
• A Few Curry Leaves – Adds a lovely aroma.
• Leftover Marinade – Don’t waste it! This adds even more flavor to the final dish.
• 2 tbsp Ketchup – Adds a touch of tangy sweetness.
• 2–3 tbsp Water – Helps thin out the sauce so it coats the paneer evenly.

This combination of ingredients ensures you get all the bold flavors and crispy textures of classic Paneer 65—but in a healthier, air-fried version! Now, let’s get cooking!